Asenapine Sublingual tablet

What is this medicine?

ASENAPINE (a SEN a peen) is used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Leave the tablet in the package until you are ready to take it. Do not push the tablet through the tablet pack. Peel back the colored tab with dry hands, gently remove the tablet, and place the tablet under your tongue. The tablet will dissolve quickly and be swallowed in your saliva. Do not chew, crush, or swallow the tablet. Do not eat or drink for 10 minutes after taking a dose. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take it more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you've taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

breathing problems

confusion

fainting spells

fast or irregular heartbeat

fever or chills, sore throat

inability to control muscle movements in the face, mouth, hands, arms, or legs

increased hunger or thirst

increased urination

restlessness or need to keep moving

seizures

stiffness, spasms, trembling

ulcers, blisters, peeling/sloughing, or swelling in the mouth

unusually weak or tired

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (Report these to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome.):

Where should I keep my medicine?

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

dementia

diabetes or a family history of diabetes

heart disease

history of breast cancer

irregular heartbeat or low blood pressure

liver disease

low blood counts, like low white cell, platelet, or red cell counts

Parkinson's disease

seizures

suicidal thoughts, plans, or attempt by you or a family member

an unusual or allergic reaction to asenapine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

pregnant or trying to get pregnant

breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. It may be several weeks before you see the full effects of this medicine. Tell your doctor or healthcare professional if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse. Tell your doctor or healthcare professional if you feel out of control, very discouraged or think you might harm yourself or others.

Do not suddenly stop taking this medicine. You may need to gradually reduce the dose. Ask your doctor or health care professional for advice.

You may get dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol can increase dizziness and drowsiness. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

This medicine may affect blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, check with your doctor or health care professional before you change your diet or the dose of your diabetic medicine.

Your mouth may get dry. Chewing sugarless gum or sucking hard candy, and drinking plenty of water will help.

This medicine can reduce the response of your body to heat or cold. Dress warm in cold weather and stay hydrated in hot weather. If possible, avoid extreme temperatures like saunas, hot tubs, very hot or cold showers, or activities that can cause dehydration such as vigorous exercise.